Melbourne to Vanuatu (M2V)

I could do with a break...

And by the looks of these pictures, this sailing caper could be right on my sweetspot. We all know that the weather can sometimes be a bit ordinary, but by the looks of this lot, they were all personally vetted for the brochure by Captain Raw himself.

Not a staged shot of Trent Shaw and Robyn Brooke...

Because this Stripey Tuna (Bonito) was the fruit of Trent's labours. Awesome for Marlin Fishing, not the best eating fish I'm told. Could have done with a freezer full of them for the Lizard Island Marlin Tournament... Many thanks to Richard Snr, Richard and John Mollard for teaching me to fish properly, in the NT and FNQ last year - and then to make an awesome curries and Singapore Crab with the fruits of our labours... Yum! A lifetime of memories and stories - cheers.

Can't have been hard to take if you're up there popping shots off... Shame your harness is in shot divulging your name John Weatherly.

Maybe making a loaf of bread is more in your line... Well done Timmy "The Ocean Racer" Barton, pictured here. Looks great - in fact, look closely and you'll see M2V moulded into the bread itself...

Good time to do laundry if you're becalmed.

You could make a coffee... Or just take in the colours.

There are always great moments of colour.

But then someone has to get you there I suppose... (Where are we Mike? Ah, ....... if I know Mal. Reminds me of the story about the African tribe...) BTW, it is Neville 'Nifty' Rose on the wheel and I love getting his image into an article - he doesn't though, which is why I always do it anyway!!!

Reaching Kite, Staysail - Giddy Up!!!

Plenty of time to get the pose just right for the photographer. "The folks back home will love it!"

And here is the photographer hard at work.

Can't be too many sunsets left? 'spose I'll just have to take in yet more view...

Ah yes. The Port. We've made it. Bet you're glad...?

More nice colours. That darkish green is really affecting my eyes somehow? Any ideas anyone?

So clearly there were some cold bits around. This is Helsal II punching out.

But then here's something to think about for when you get there... Bound to help in my experience.

The USS Coolidge as it is now and in better days pre WWII...

And speaking of arriving, there'll be plenty of activity at the port to welcome you. Hopefully not too many of your competitors though...

...but plenty of smiles, because you just made it. 1885nm down and time to relax and partake in all that is on offer.

There are ceremonies...

And here are the headresses...

Might not be the G, but this grandstand serves well at the local sports ground.

Want to go and see the NOR and perhaps check out who is already going? Then just click HERE.

By John Curnow